At Bruno Painting and Carpentry, we’re proud to have expanded our services beyond painting to handle all your carpentry. We offer a wide variety of projects, that vary in size and scope. We can easily tackle some projects in just a day with our Carpenter or Handyman for a Day service, while others will take longer if it is a larger project. Here are the most popular exterior carpentry projects that can beautify your home and how long you can expect them to take.

 

Exterior Carpentry Projects that can be Done in a Day

 Window, door, and trim replacement are exterior carpentry projects that can be done in a week

Small Repairs

Weather in Rhode Island can be rough, especially in the Winter and Spring. Weather patterns such as snowstorms, heavy rains, and wind can all do damage to your deck, roof, siding, and other parts of your home leaving you to repair them. Minor repair work might not be overly intricate or complicated but repairing damage sooner rather than later is essential to the longevity of your home.

Trim Work

The trim on your home’s exterior is probably not something you think about all the time, but it can add a lot of dimension to the overall look of your house. Making sure the quality of the trim is high, and any needed repairs are handled regularly is essential to maintaining a beautiful exterior.

Carpenter or Handyman for a Day

Small repairs and trim work are simpler than the projects we have listed below. They can be handled in a shorter amount of time than other exterior projects. Our Carpenter or Handyman for a Day service is perfect for anyone who needs these smaller updates or work done for their home.

 

Exterior Carpentry Projects that can be Done in a Week

Wood rot replacement is a great exterior carpentry project.

Wood Rot Replacement

Wood rot can greatly affect your home's curb appeal and its structural integrity. Not only is it an eyesore, but if wood rot is left untreated, it can spread and cause even more damage to your home. Before you paint the exterior of your home, the rotted pieces of wood will need to be repaired or, in some cases, replaced.

How do you know if you have wood rot? Look for pieces of wood that seem spongy or soft. They are at the beginning or intermediate stages of rot. Other signs of wood rot include paint chipping, paint peeling, wood splintering, or discoloration.  If you think your home may have wood rot, contact a professional as soon as you can to remedy these areas to protect your home from further damage.

Window and Door Replacement

You may not commonly think about your windows and exterior doors needing to be replaced, but there will come a time when they do! Usually, your windows need to be replaced between 15-30 years and your doors should be refinished after 5-10 years. If your home is not brand new and you’re not the first owner, these might be aspects you need to consider since these elements might need maintenance or replacement.

Another reason to replace your windows or doors is if you want to upgrade them. Having double-paned windows is important for protection and keeping your home insulated. Additionally, you may want a heavier exterior door front or back door for protection or a new door for a different look.

 

Exterior Carpentry Projects that can be Done in a Month

A great exterior carpentry project that can be done in a month is a newly built deck

New Deck

If you're looking for a way to add extra living space to your home, a great option is a new deck or patio. When choosing materials for your deck or patio, choose something that compliments the style of your home and will hold up over time. You can also add some accent colors to add personality!

Siding (Replacement or Otherwise)

Siding is one of the most important layers of protection for your home. Reshingling or replacing siding that has signs of wear and tear can prevent larger issues, such as wood rot or mold. Preventing these common issues is important and finding a contractor who can replace your siding, as well as make any further adjustments to your exterior, is an essential step to prevent any future damage.

 

If you are interested in changing the look of your home, try one of the above exterior carpentry projects! We cover everything from basic structural repairs to intricate finish work. Our talented carpenters receive ongoing training and bring care and expertise to every project. They will listen to your needs and thoroughly inspect your current carpentry work so that when the job looks as good as new.

To learn more about our talented carpenters and how our carpentry services will work for your Rhode Island home, visit our project process page. If your home’s woodwork needs some vital repairs or if you’re beginning a larger home improvement journey that requires carpentry, start by scheduling an estimate!

When most homeowners think of projects that can improve and elevate their homes, carpentry work isn’t necessarily the first thing on the list. However, there are several carpentry projects that can do just that: improve your home. With a range of complexity and costs, there are many carpentry projects that can add to your home and take it to that next level of quality. Here are our top carpentry projects that elevate your home not only aesthetically, but also functionally.

 

Adding crown molding and wainscoting

A classic use of carpentry in your home is adding crown molding or wainscotting. For a room revival that brings dimension and lasting value to plain walls, nothing beats a traditional wainscoting of richly layered wood panels. In addition to the aesthetic appeal, wainscoting offers some practical benefits still as well. Wainscoting can be great for preventing damage to your walls, entryways, hallways, stairways, etc. Any place that sees a high amount of foot traffic in the home is at risk for taking damage from accidental bumps, knocks, and brush ups. This is just an added benefit on top of the centuries old, time-tested beauty of wainscoting.

A carpentry project to elevate your home is adding wainscoting to a room.

Crown molding is a lower cost carpentry addition that can similarly improve your aesthetic. Crown molding isn’t nearly as visually intense as wainscoting. The original purpose of crown molding was to conceal imperfections in older homes, especially where the walls and ceilings touch. If your house is a newer build, you probably won’t have to worry about cracks or warps along the tight corners, but older properties are prone to these specific flaws. Crown molding is a quick and easy way to transform the look of your home without any large renovations. At a much lower cost, crown molding can increase your home’s value as it is usually an indicator of a higher-quality home. 

 

Closet and Cabinet Updates

Carpentry work can also elevate your house through updating its existing features. Cabinets and closets are two aspects of your home that can easily be improved and reworked via carpentry work. While these are parts of your home that you might not think about very often, adding new cabinet doors or shelving in a closet can make the space more functional and make them easier to use. 

Closet improvements can include adding additional shelving, redoing your current shelving, and creating built-ins, and replacing your closet doors. Cabinet updates can involve replacing the doors, refinishing the doors, or fixing the shelves. 

 

Built-in Shelving

Built-in shelving is one of the top carpentry projects that elevate your home’s functionality and look. This addition is extra versatile because this style of shelving can be added to any type of room and doesn’t take up a lot of space. Bedrooms, offices, living rooms, and dining rooms can all utilize shelving in different ways. If smaller space is an issue, a built-in space can help address it by giving you more room to move since the shelving is completely against the wall. Built-in shelving is also a great way to improve an unused area of your home, such as under a staircase, a narrow hallway or a corner where your furniture cannot fit well. Your built-in shelves can also be used as a focal point over a furniture piece.

Built-in shelving is one of the best carpentry projects to elevate your home.

 

Creating a Mudroom

A mudroom is a dedicated space in the home, usually located at the rear or front entrance. These rooms usually have a bench, as well as cabinets and shelving, sometimes including cubbies and hooks. The shelving and cubbies store all the dirty shoes and clothes to protect your home from dirt and mud collected throughout the day. A mudroom can be an extremely practical and useful way to elevate your home. While in concept mudrooms are very utilitarian, they don’t have to be ugly! High quality carpentry work will make the room look beautiful in addition to being functional.

Adding a mudroom is a great carpentry project to elevate your home.

 

Updating Your Home Office Space

It looks like the home office is here to stay whether you have a fully decked out space or a smaller area with a desk and chair. Some home offices are as simple as a built-in kitchen desk, a small area to check the mail, pay a few bills or where the kids can do their homework. Other home offices include multiple workstations and built-in bookcases. 

Home offices can be custom designed to fit the needs of you and your family. If your needs are greater (if you work from home consistently), explore the idea of creating a specific space for your work. You can add built-ins for organization or a built-in desk to save space. If your home office needs aren’t as big, you can add a built-in kitchen desk or drop-down desk that can also serve as a place for other things like paying bills.

 

Have a carpentry project, big or small, on your to-do list this year? Contact us! We can answer any questions you have and would love to assist you in elevating your home.

There are so many aspects of home maintenance to keep track of when you are a homeowner. Exterior home maintenance can seem obvious: cleaning out gutters, power washing siding, or replacing roofing. Interior maintenance, we often think of just needing a fresh coat of paint or maybe fixing a leaky pipe now and then. However, there are other common home interior issues worth keeping an eye out for as a homeowner! Here are a few of the most common interior issues we are asked to fix and how to spot them in your own home.

 

Wood Rot

One of the most common issues we see in Rhode Island homes is wood rot. Wood rot is decay caused by fungal growth in damp wood. When timber becomes damp enough to have 20% or more moisture content and isn't able to dry out quickly or is repeatedly dampened, it creates the ideal conditions for wood-eating fungi.

wood rot is a common interior issue

Wood rot is most commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and attics or basements. Anywhere moisture levels are higher in your home is at higher risk for wood rot.

To see if you have wood rot, take a good look at the visible wood in your home. Look for:

If you’re still unsure, the easiest way to test for wood rot is to take a screwdriver and press it against an area you are testing. If it sinks in easily, you likely have wood rot.

How do you solve a problem of wood rot? Contact a professional carpenter or contractor and consult them! Our common course for repair is either removing the rotted wood entirely and replacing it with new lumber or replacing sections that have rotted and filling gaps with epoxy or a similar material.

 

Old Wood

Old wood can be an eye-sore, as well as dangerous if left alone. Some wood can be noticeably outdated and make your home feel old. On the other hand, old wood may not be as visually noticeable, but can be as structurally insecure.

Old wood can be a structural risk depending on the wood piece’s location and purpose. While wood can last a very long time, sometimes up to 150 years, older homes (like the ones we have in the Northeast) can have wood items that have come close to the end of their sturdiness.

old wood can be a common interior issue

Places to look for older wood are stairs, overhead beams, and other wood surfaces that are not as visible, like cabinet interiors. If wood is splitting or cracked, that can be a tell-tale sign of age. Creaky stairs can be sign of structural issues underneath and might be something to investigate further if you begin to hear that noise.

 

Plaster Cracks

Another issue we see in homes are plaster cracks. Plaster cracks are an incredibly normal occurrence in homes. Plaster walls respond to inevitable foundation shifts and climate changes, and they can begin to crack. Everyday life, with its bumps and bangs, also takes its toll on plaster walls.

Certain areas, such as above and beside doorways and windows, are classic areas where cracking occurs. Nearly all homes with plaster walls will eventually develop window and door cracks. Repairing these cracks is essential, as leaving these areas unfixed can result in severe structural issues. An early sign can be that a door becomes unable to close because of the shift in the doorframe. Though the repair is a relatively simple and common process, you’ll want a professional to handle it since any mistake can give way to further damage.

 

Awkward Spaces

If you have awkward spaces in your home, such as gaps underneath stairs, carpentry projects can fill those spaces! We have done projects that utilize that free space with carpentry work, including under-the-stairs cabinets, breakfast nooks, mudroom built-ins, and kitchen islands. If spaces in your home feel like they are lacking or empty, an addition of any of the above can make the area feel complete.

common interior issues awkward space

If you notice that some areas in your home feel off or empty, but you don’t have any idea how to fix it, consult with a professional contractor! They can help you come up with some creative ideas to utilize those spaces that need a little something more.

Your home is so important since it acts as the barrier between you and the outdoors. Our goal is to help you maintain it and keep it in top shape. Tackling any of these issues as they appear in your house will increase the longevity of the home, as well as make sure everything is structurally sound. If you think that your home might have one (or more) of these issues, contact us! As professional painters and carpenters in Rhode Island, we are here to help with any common (or uncommon) interior home issues you may have.

As the cooler months approach, thoughts turn towards holiday preparations, envisioning gatherings with friends and family. With Covid's impact diminishing, many are eager to once again open their doors to visitors and celebrate the upcoming seasons. Amidst these plans, a common query arises: When to repaint house interior?

Questions you may be asking yourself include … Is my home ready to entertain for the holidays? What can I do to get my home ready for the holidays? Whether you’re getting your home ready to entertain, simply want to refresh it for your own enjoyment, or if selling your home is in your plans, an interior paint job is a relatively inexpensive way to update your home. Understanding when you should repaint your home's interior will help you get past whether you should or shouldn’t and onto the color and sheen selection, arguably the most enjoyable part of the process.

The Current Paint is Outdated or Drab

The simplest way to know when your home’s interior should be repainted is when you look at a space in your home and it no longer makes you happy to be in it. The color may be drab, out of style, or just doesn’t please you.

Large, often-used spaces, such as your kitchen, should feel pleasing to you and to your guests. Having just the right color, shade, and sheen in these spaces makes a big difference in the enjoyment you get when spending lots of time in them. Don’t overlook powder rooms, laundry areas, and foyers, as those spaces either introduce your home to visitors or are used by you more than you think. Having your home fully color planned so there is a great flow from one area to another can further help you enjoy the overall look and feel of your home.

an outdated color can show that your interior needs to be repainted

 

There are Surface Imperfections You Can’t Clean

Another way to know when your home’s interior should be repainted is to inspect the paint finish to look for any imperfections, such as marks or scrapes you cannot clean off, peeling, or fading. You see the interior of your home almost every day, and sometimes those imperfections seem normal, but they’re not.

 

A More Serious Condition is Affecting the Finish

When your existing paint finish begins to fail, it is time to call your trusted, local paint contractor to come over and inspect the interior of your home. Interior paint imperfections may be a sign of unwanted water, mold, or other even less welcome issues.

Your professional painter will be able to diagnose the cause of the imperfections, but they’ll also be able to resolve the problems correctly so your home’s integrity is intact. If mold is present, your professional painter will likely call in a mold remediation specialist to take care of the problem.

when should you repaint your home's interior

The work necessary to take care of a paint imperfection may be extensive and can include scraping, spackling, filling, priming, and other steps you may or may not be able to handle on your own. Either way, we recommend letting our painting and carpentry experts take a look to be sure you have nothing serious going on behind your walls.

Aside from the aesthetic importance of beautifully finished wall and trim surfaces, it is a health hazard if water seeps and creates damage. Because we’re close to water and have our share of wet weather, having an annual or biannual inspection of your home’s interior and exterior is a good idea.

You Want a New Color

Finally, even if you’ve recently painted a room, an area, or the entire house, if you simply want another color or set of colors to adorn your walls, that is a perfectly good reason to do so. Whereas some people prefer to see the same colors (and ask us to repaint their walls in the exact same colors, which is perfectly okay), you may be the type of person who thrives on change or loves to have the latest trending colors surrounding them at home.

when to repaint your home's interior

 

We’re happy to oblige and help you repaint your home’s interior regardless of your reasons for wanting it to be done. Our team of experienced carpenters can help fix most imperfections you may have in your walls or trim, and our experienced painters will give your home’s interior the smooth and beautiful paint finish in the colors you carefully and lovingly select.

Getting ready for the holidays is an act of love. It’s about preparing to welcome others into your home to spend precious moments that last a lifetime. We’re here to help you with all of your carpentry and painting needs. Reach out if you’re in the Rhode Island area. We look forward to serving you!

With our 2022 summer coming to an end and Labor Day just around the corner, we’re preparing for fall in Rhode Island! As the seasons change, you may been considering some home interior updates and improvements to enhance its aesthetic appeal and to protect the integrity of its structure.

We love helping our friends and neighbors keep their homes in top shape and we’re focusing on specific home interior updates for fall 2022. Home updates you may want to consider include:

 

Paint Repairs

Paint repairs can be done yourself if you’re detail-oriented or handy, however, some paint repairs are best done by a painting professional. Repairs that require spackling, scraping, sanding, priming, and color matching are more difficult than simply painting over a mark on the wall, and may be best left to a painting pro.

 

Stress Cracks

Stress cracks, unlike more minor repairs, should almost always be taken care of by a skilled carpenter and painter. According to Fine Homebuilding, “Stress cracks, which typically occur above a doorway or window, are caused by structural movement or settling. If a crack occurs at a seam, the tape may blister or come loose. But stress cracks can also occur where there is no joint in the drywall. It may run along the actual face of the panel, or it may go all the way through to the other side. A seam located next to the edge of a header is more likely to crack than one located 8 in. or more from the edge.”

stress crack before home interior updates for fall

Before

stress crack after home interior updates for fall

After

Simply understanding the type of stress crack and its cause is difficult. Repairing a stress crack can be even more tricky. A sharp utility knife, mesh tape, and compound are a few items needed to repair a stress crack and are common items our experienced carpenters use to skillfully repair your home’s stress cracks.

 

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Case Opening Trim Work and Trim Painting

Case opening trim work is an aesthetically pleasing addition to your home’s doorways. As the Fall approaches and you begin entertaining family and friends for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and other Fall and Winter holidays, you’ll be amazed at how adding beautiful cased opening trim work can change the appearance of your home’s interior.

Our well-trained carpenters can expertly add the size, shape, and thickness of trim you prefer. Once the cased opening trim work is completed, it can be stained or painted to match or complement your trim, including baseboards, window trim, ceiling trim, medallions, fireplace mantles, and any other interior trim work you have in your home.

 

Cabinet Painting

When it comes to making a big “Before” and “After” difference in your home, having your kitchen cabinets professionally painted or installing brand new cabinets in your kitchen, office, or elsewhere in your home may provide you with the most remarkable change.

cabinet painting is a home interior updates you can make for falll

Many of our clients ask us if they should repaint their existing cabinets or if they should have brand new ones installed. We suggest repainting your existing cabinets if you like the style of the cabinets and if they’re of high-quality material.

 

Cabinet Installation

If you do not like the look and style of your existing cabinets, paint will not change that. If your cabinets are made of a material that would be best replaced, such as inexpensive particle board, or some material that cannot be sanded down for excellent results, then we’d recommend having brand new, updated cabinets installed.

cabinet installation is a great home interior update for fall

The good news is that our skilled carpenters and painters at Bruno Painting can help you with either painting your existing cabinets or installing a new set of cabinets. And we can help you make the best decision about your cabinets during our complimentary consultation with you.

 

Though we’re sad to see the end of the summer, we’re excited for great things ahead in the upcoming fall and winter seasons. Whether you want any of the home interior updates for fall that we’ve discussed above or some other update that requires a professional carpenter or a professional painter or both, we’re happy to help!

Reach out to Bruno Painting today for painting and carpentry work in Newport and all Rhode Island areas. Our motto since 2004 is Upholding and Caring for Surfaces and Relationships. We’d love to welcome you to our customer family. We look forward to serving you!

What Goes Into Properly Painting Your Home’s Exterior?

The first thing you may think of when it comes time to repaint your home’s exterior is the color you’ll choose this time around. Since a well-done exterior paint job lasts between 5 – 7 years, considering our often-harsh Rhode Island weather conditions, you’ll be looking at the color you choose for some time. Selecting the exterior paint color you’ll love for many years is a topic for another blog. Suffice it to say, paint color selection is not the only thing that goes into painting your home’s exterior.

You may or may not know that an excellent paint prep and application can actually protect your home’s exterior surfaces, and provide protection from unwanted water, from snow, rain, condensation, or other sources, from entering your home. If unwanted water gets inside and is not somehow dried, you may get mold which can cause rot and harm your health.

Before your house can benefit from the protection afforded by a well-executed paint job, it’s essential to be sure your professional painter does all it takes to properly prepare and then paint your home’s exterior.

 

What Paint to Use

One of our favorite paint brands to use for our clients is called Fine Paints of Europe (FPE). Their tagline is “Luxurious Lasting Color, Imported from Holland.” They’re not inexpensive, but what FPE supports is following proper painting protocols for best results.

In fact, on their website, FPE says, “Please do not consider the use of our house paints unless you are committed to doing a proper job and are aware of the factors which will determine the appearance and durability of the application.”

fine paints of Europe how to paint your home's exterior | Properly Painting

 

Steps to Properly Paint Your Home's Exterior

At Bruno Painting, we are 100% committed to doing a proper job and exceeding expectations for best painting results. How do we do that? We follow a step-by-step process cultivated over many years of painting our clients’ homes. Our formula is proprietary, but we’ll share the basic steps for how to properly paint your home’s exterior for the best results.

 

Step 1

 Select your painting professional. Of course, we’re biased and believe we’re one of the best painters in Rhode Island. (Anyone who takes their work seriously should believe they’re the best!) At Bruno Painting, we not only offer elite painting services, we also have a team of experienced carpenters who can remodel your home, fix any fixable problems with your home, and basically re-work or rebuild your home to your liking. Then our team of experienced, highly trained painters come in and add the coats of paint needed to make your home aesthetically amazing!

What we’ve cultivated at Bruno Painting is a teamwork environment so our carpenters and our painters work seamlessly to do the work the right way, no cutting corners, the best way, the correct way. You’re assured a structurally sound, well-painted home when your project is completed!

choose your painting professional how to paint your home's exterior

 

Step 2

Plan which parts of your exterior will be painted and agree on the paint brand and the color palettes that will be used. If there are any structural updates or fixes to be made to your home, we’ll discuss those with you in detail so you can decide all the work that needs to be done prior to paint prep.

Decide on exactly what color and finish goes on which surfaces. Even exterior paints come in different sheens and selecting the sheen for each area to be painted, such as the siding or the trim, is an important step not to be overlooked. To note, exterior paints with a more matted sheen tend to be less durable. Conversely, exterior paints with a more glossy sheen tend to tolerate wear and tear better.

Another consideration when choosing the sheen for your exterior paint is to realize that an exterior paint with a more matted sheen is not as easy to wash. If you anticipate needing to have your home power washed because it is near an ocean or trees, you’ll want to select a finish that is not completely a matte finish.

During your professional painting consultation, paint brand, color, and sheen selection will all be addressed.

 

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Step 3

Decide on a schedule for the painting your home based on your best estimates and weather forecasts. Another one of our favorite paint brands is Benjamin Moore. According to the experts at Benjamin Moore, “Plan based on weather – rain can easily ruin a fresh coat of paint … so weather Is truly a critical component of a successful exterior paint project.”

Benjamin Moore’s tip for exterior painting in the “right” weather:  “Low temperatures and high humidity are a bad combination. Generally speaking, the higher the humidity, the slower a product dries.”

Realize, of course, that the weather can change. But it’s important to be aware of upcoming weather to give your paint project the best chance of success!

 

Step 4

Prepare your home for painting. This stage is often referred to as “prep” and many experts prep a home for painting in different order. The important thing to note is that a house exterior is cleaned, dried, caulked, and sanded for optimal paint adherence before a primer or paint brush is used.

exterior prep how to paint your home's exterior

 

Step 5

Prime the exterior surfaces to be painted, including brick surfaces. Note that some experts recommend caulking after priming. You may even choose to caulk some areas before priming and caulking other spots after priming. The key point is to make the caulked surface as smooth as possible so the paint covering it will look as smooth.

 

Step 6

Have your carefully chosen paint color and sheen applied to your home’s exterior. This is the most rewarding step, of course, especially if you’re changing to a new color that you’re excited to see on your home.

While painting professionals may differ in their process of painting your home, the best exterior painting results will be achieved when the approach is systematic and well-planned. It is a big endeavor to have your home’s exterior painted. There’s a lot that goes into properly painting your home’s exterior.

At Bruno Painting, we’re focused on doing all the right things and on Upholding and Caring for Surfaces and Relationships since 2004. We invite you to become a completely happy Bruno Painting client. Reach out today for your complimentary remodeling and painting estimate.

Summer is here on the classic coast and with it comes enjoying the outdoor areas of your home. The summer season is also the best time to make some exterior updates to your home.

Exterior updates are a great way to boost your curb appeal, protect your home and add value to your investment. Regularly inspecting and updating your home's exterior will help to identify any potential problems.

Whether you're looking to add some curb appeal or just want to make your home more enjoyable, there are easy ways to make home exterior updates for summer. Here are some great ideas for giving your home a summer makeover.

 

outdoor deck updates for summer

Update Outdoor Areas

Late nights around a fire pit or beautiful patio are some of the best ways to entertain and spend time with your family. Updating your outdoor spaces can extend your living area to your backyard and beyond. Try incorporating some of these into your next home improvement project.

 

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painting updates for summer

Painting Projects

Painting is one of the most effective ways to transform your home. Paint is also an incredible agent for protecting your surfaces against weather and decay. Two of the most popular updates homeowners make to their exteriors are siding and front door projects.

 

spring maintenance checklist

Installing New Windows

Installing new windows is a great way to update your home's exterior and improve its energy efficiency. If your windows are old or drafty, they could be costing you money on your energy bills.

New windows will keep your home better insulated and reduce your energy costs. You can also find windows that come with UV protection to help keep your furniture and carpets from fading.

Exterior updates are also a great way to improve your home's energy efficiency. Not only will regular exterior updates save you money in the long run, but they'll also help make your home more comfortable and efficient.

 

Updating and maintaining your exterior in summer protects your home, improves your curb appeal, and adds value to your investment. At Bruno Painting, we handle any necessary carpentry work, do the key prep work to ensure longevity in your project, and use high-quality paint. Our expert teams of painters and carpenters are ready to make your home exterior updates seamless. Contact us for your next exterior painting or carpentry project!

Boost your Rhode Island home's curb appeal

How to Boost Curb Appeal for Your Rhode Island Home

Homes with lots of character and beautiful finishes are seen commonly throughout Rhode Island. When you pull onto your street and take a first glance at your home, you should get a sense of joy because it looks lovely, well taken care of, and inviting. For others who may have recently moved in or who are otherwise behind schedule, this may not be the case. The first sight of your home as you approach may not give you such a feeling of happiness.

If your eye catches spots that need work, you may want to take steps to boost your home’s curb appeal. You can also schedule your home’s exterior updates during these colder months, in advance of when the work will be done as soon as the weather changes.

There are many options when you decide to improve the curb appeal for your Rhode Island home. The advantages of maintaining your curb appeal go beyond having an aesthetically pleasing house. Understanding the benefits, as well as how to accomplish a well-appointed home exterior will help you decide which updates you’d like to have done. Bruno Painting provides tips on how to boost your Rhode Island home’s curb appeal so each time you drive up to your home, you feel pleased, joyful, and happy.

 

What is Curb Appeal?

Curb appeal is how attractive a house (or building or property) is when looked at from the sidewalk. Realtors use the phrase "curb appeal" more often than other types of professionals. However, curb appeal can be important outside of real estate.

 

Advantages of Boosting Your Curb Appeal

There are many advantages to boosting your curb appeal. If you want to sell your home this year, improving the exterior of your home can be a great start to the process. Improving your curb appeal can also boost your overall mood when you drive up to your home. If neither of those is enough to convince you, putting energy and resources toward giving your home better curb appeal could increase the value of your home!

 

Types of Curb Appeal for Your Rhode Island Home

Landscaping

One of the primary features contributing to your home’s curb appeal is landscaping. Many homeowners are surprised how different their home looks after it has been properly landscaped and maintained. With fresh mulch, flowering plants, and some well-appointed shrubs or trees, you can complete your landscaping projects to enhance the appearance of your home’s exterior space. Using plants to increase privacy and create a symmetrical look are ideal additions.

Some prefer to use plants to increase privacy and improve appearance. It's worth noting that plant selection should include options that will do well for the weather we see in Rhode Island. Find perennials that are native to our area, as well as evergreens. They will add touch of color all year round.

 

Exterior Cleanliness

boost curb appeal for your Rhode Island home

Is your home’s paint is in good condition but is a little dusty or dingy looking or simply needs a light sprucing up? There is no better way to make your surfaces look new than a good pressure washing. From siding to driveways to walkways, this is an instantaneous improvement to your curb appeal. Pressure washing cleans a variety of surfaces with ease by removing dirt, oil, and grime that builds up over time.

Another note from the experts: pressure washing can be done on your own. However, using an ill-fitted nozzle or the wrong cleaners for a surface can cause damage instead of improving your surfaces. Always consult with a professional if you are unsure what pressure washing method is best for your home.

 

Rotting Wood

Wood rot can greatly affect your home's curb appeal. Not only is it an eyesore, but if wood rot is left untreated, it can spread and cause even more damage to your home. Before you paint the exterior of your home, the wood rot will need to be repaired or, in some cases, replaced.

How do you know if you have wood rot? Look for pieces of wood that seem spongy or soft. They are at the beginning or intermediate stages of rot. Other signs of wood rot include paint chipping, paint peeling, wood splintering, or discoloration.  If you think your home may have wood rot, contact a professional painting or carpentry contractor to remedy these areas to protect your home from further damage.

 

Carpentry Work

carpentry work can help boost your Rhode Island home's curb appeal

Another feature related to your home’s curb appeal that can make a lasting impression is an inviting porch or a welcoming entryway. Home makeovers that include eaves, gables, or a full front porch can make any home a showstopper when it comes to curb appeal.

These types of updates require a trusted and skilled carpentry team that can work within the framework of other updates you want to make. One example is window and door updates. Installing windows, doors, and trim may seem like a possible DIY project. These are better left to carpentry professionals, however, who can provide high-quality craftsmanship that will last.

 

Painting

Boost your Rhode Island home's curb appeal with a coat of paint

As with any home improvement update, the most effective and impressive way to increase curb appeal is with a fresh coat of paint for your home’s exterior, windows, and doors. A paint update to a home with a lack-luster finish not only makes your property look more inviting but also helps protect your home from the elements.

Improving the curb appeal for your Rhode Island home is an important contribution. It can make your exterior look its best for your enjoyment, possibly get it ready to sell, or increase the value of your investment. Carpentry and painting updates are best done by professionals who understand your vision for the look of your home.

 

The painters and carpentry professionals at Bruno Painting in Rhode Island have been working diligently to prepare and plan for the upcoming exterior painting season. We are taking new clients who need assistance from full-service, experienced home improvement professionals. Contact us for more information about our range of services and how we can help you get the most joy from your home.

The Winter months are a time to enjoy the beautiful landscape in Portsmouth. From snowy sceneries to picturesque winter landscapes, there is much to appreciate. When pondering what to do this coming winter, consider booking professional carpentry services to upgrade your home and design your space to fit your needs.

Homeowners schedule carpentry services during the off-peak season of winter to secure off-season, oftentimes better, pricing for their projects. This may give customers an opportunity to get their carpentry work done without paying top dollar without compromising on quality. There are many carpentry projects that may be of interest to you to update your home. Homeowners choose many of these projects, not only to increase their enjoyment of their homes but also with the goal of increasing the value of their property.

 

Kitchen Renovation

Kitchen renovations are a common project among homeowners year-round as it has been proven to provide one of the best returns on investments (ROI). Your kitchen is the heart of your home, so taking care to update and improve your kitchen is a smart choice. Updates like new counters, backsplashes, flooring, and window treatments are all ideal updates to get the “biggest bang for your buck,” as well as the highest enjoyment from your kitchen.

Rhode Island Kitchen Remodel and Carpentry

Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom remodeling is something that many homeowners have done over the years in order to add value and convenience to their homes. Second, only to kitchen renovations, bathroom updates are a high ROI for any home. Many choose to update bathrooms that look dated with new flooring, vanities, tubs, and tile which make for a beautiful finish in a space that we spend time in every day.

Rhode Island Bathroom Remodel and Carpentry

Organization Updates

A well-organized home is one that exudes comfort and a sense of harmony. That is why so many have chosen to focus on areas of their homes that lend to keeping things tidy. With the help of custom closets, built-in shelving, and cabinets any home can feel as if an interior designer has revamped your space.

A closet remodeling project can be done quite easily and will help you stay organized. For smaller spaces, maximizing your storage space is especially important. Built-in shelving both in the bedroom and even in the living room can produce an elevated feel.

One of the easiest parts of home improvement is installing shelving in your closet or pantry. This increases your storage space while keeping your home organized. 

When thinking about organization, you may not think of cabinets immediately but they play a major role in everyday living.  A beautiful finish on kitchen cabinets can make your space feel more open and clean which is always an important factor in organizing your home.

 

 

Tiling Projects

One of the less common but equally important home carpentry projects homeowners consider is tiling. From backsplashes to basement and bathroom flooring, tile is a project requiring special skills. That is why professionals take great care and effort to complete them.

Rhode Island Tiling Remodel and Carpentry

Crown Molding and Wainscoting

When it comes to adding character and elegance to your home, nothing is more elegant than crown molding. While this may look extravagant and luxurious, many skilled carpenters can add this look to your home for a reasonable price. The added beauty and benefits of a finish cannot be understated in how this adds value to your home.

Wainscoting is another classic look you may see in homes in and around Portsmouth. Adding wainscoting to dining rooms and other spaces in your home can positively impact your home’s resale value. These aren't very difficult or expensive projects, but when done properly, they can make a dramatic difference.

 

The winter months provide time for Portsmouth homeowners to make improvements around the home. The first step towards any home interior project is hiring a trusted carpentry service that provides quality work. Hiring a company that offers carpentry along with other services like painting is a smart choice. 

The professional carpenters at Bruno Painting can complete all the services you need. Our team offers comprehensive services like kitchen and bathroom updates, tiling, shelving, and cabinetry. 

The best part of choosing Bruno Painting and Carpentry for your next home project is that you can work with one company to complete your project. We are the best all-in-one carpentry and painting contractor in Rhode Island. If you’ve been thinking about updating your home, take advantage of the services we offer this winter by scheduling your free consultation today.

By now, your home is likely decorated for the upcoming fall holidays and soon enough we will be experiencing all the beauty that fall and winter bring to the classic coast. Fall is a great time to take care of home maintenance tasks that you might not have had time for during the summer but still need to be addressed before winter settles in. 

This fall home maintenance checklist includes tasks that should be done once or twice a year and can help make sure your house stays in good shape all year long. While there are many tasks that can be done in the coming months, the following are some we found to be the most important to prepare your home for winter in Rhode Island.

Exterior home maintenance

Exterior Home Maintenance

Staying warm indoors begins with ensuring your home’s exterior is properly sealed. Here are the major areas to inspect for weak points in your home’s exterior.

Roof Repairs

Roofs are one of the most important aspects that protect your home. Any loose or missing shingles can lead to leaks, which can be detrimental during freezing conditions. Damage to your roof almost certainly guarantees problems elsewhere in your house as well since water may get into places it shouldn't be like attics, electrical wires, and pipes. Make sure you always have a licensed professional inspect this vital area of any structure because they'll know when something needs attention.

sealing windows is part of home maintenance

Caulking or Sealing

Caulking and sealing are important to prevent air from escaping, water intrusion, and heat loss. This is most important for areas around pipes and your foundation. Look for areas around windows where the weather meets wood frames to keep moisture and drafts out. Proper seals on doors can also keep heating costs down. A simple inspection for airflow in these areas will let you know if there is an issue that needs to be remediated. 

Siding and Paint

Your home is an investment and it deserves the best protection. Siding and paint on your exterior are great barriers to protect your home. If you notice signs of damage on your exterior paint, then there could be issues with its underlying material or substrate that needs some help in order to stay healthy. Inspecting for signs that current surfaces are no longer protected can reveal a few tell-tale clues: peeling, blistering, or cracks can mean there's an underlying material that needs to be repaired.

Interior Home Maintenance

Once your exterior surfaces are addressed, turning indoors to make sure your home is warm and safe all winter long is of the utmost importance. Here are our top tips to ensure the interior of your home is ready for the winter season.

Interior Fireplace Maintenance is important for safety

Chimney Cleaning

As the leaves change and fall, it's time to have your chimney cleaned. A clean fireplace can provide you with many cozy nights around the hearth. During cleaning be sure to inspect for cracks or signs of water damage. This will not only help you to protect yourself but also can prevent costly repairs should anything arise later down the road. Depending on your chimney, you should have it professionally swept every 50-70 burns or at least once a year.

Heater Maintenance

The simplest way to help keep your furnace in its optimal state through winter is through regular filter changes. Air quality has always been an important factor in keeping homes safe. By changing your air filters every 3 months, your furnace will continue to provide optimal air quality inside your home, without having any negative impact on performance. Be sure to also turn on your humidifier so that your air isn’t overly dry. Cold weather conditions demand more of our furnaces, so having your heater inspected this fall can help avoid breakdowns. 

And the final step to preparing your home for winter is getting an estimate from a contractor if you think any repairs need to be made before winter arrives. This will give you plenty of time and ensure that all necessary repairs are completed in time for colder weather. Make sure they're reputable by checking reviews online or asking friends and family members who they’ve worked with in the past.

Bruno Painting has worked hard to uphold and care for surfaces and relationships since 2004. Our mission to serve Rhode Island homeowners with our knowledge and expertise is exactly why so many people trust us to help keep their homes safe and warm. If you need help getting your home ready for winter, or you have a painting, carpentry, or remodeling project you’re considering, contact us today!

Selling a home is a very involved process with many things to do in preparation, including sprucing up your home’s interior and exterior to make it more appealing to homebuyers. Your house may need something as simple as a fresh coat of paint or it may require a larger maintenance project to prepare it to sell. It’s best to have a clear plan of your projects, both large and small, that you intend to have completed when you prepare your house to sell.

Knowing what repairs and updates need to be done beforehand can help make the process easier. Bruno Painting provides this list of things to do to get your home ready for sale.   

Prepare your home to sell with great curb appeal

Choose the Right Color

Your home should be seen as a warm and inviting place to potential buyers. Painting your home a harmonious color can add to that effect. If your home needs a fresh coat of paint before you sell, you can consider neutral colors like off-white, light blue, gray, or yellow. Painting your house a neutral color will attract a wider range of potential buyers. Non-traditional colors may only appeal to a limited number of buyers.  

What defines ‘the right color’ is based on many factors. Is the house surrounded by woods and trees or is it a landscape characterized by lots of green grass and plants? Is your house close to the beach? Are you looking to make your house pop or are you wanting it to blend in?  

A color like red or yellow may stand out in the trees whereas a gray or green would blend in. If your home is close to the coast, you may want to look at painting it a shade of blue, gray, or taupe to match the landscape. 

Prepare your home to sell with repainted shutters

Additionally, the color of the shutters, doors, and trim can add to the enhanced curb appeal and buyer appeal. White trim and shutters on a blue or gray house really make them stand out. It also gives a fresh and crisp look to the home. If you decide to go with a nautical theme, darker blue or aqua would go perfectly with a lighter color of blue. The elements of your home can truly tie together the color palette you choose. 

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Take Care of Repairs and Maintenance

If you are preparing to sell your home, the reality is that you may need to make some repairs. It can be something as simple as fixing a leaky faucet or something a little more complex, like replacing several boards on your deck. Once you figure out what projects need to be done, you can decide if you want to tackle each project on your own or if you need to hire someone to complete it. Some common repairs include a front door upgrade, window replacement, kitchen renovations, roof replacement, and bathroom renovations. 

Prepare your home to sell with repairs

Other things that may need to be done fit more in the maintenance category. It’s important to consider spaces that may need professional cleaning or power washing. Deep cleaning your home before putting it on the market can give it a crisp look. 

If you are still living in the house while trying to sell it, it’s essential to deep clean every part of your home including dusting the fans, polishing your appliances, and cleaning the windows inside and out. You’ll want to make sure much of the clutter is gone, especially if pictures are going to be taken or if you are having a showing. Keeping your home clean and decluttered is not a one-time project. This process will need to continue the entire time your house is on the market.  

Prepare your house to sell with enhanced curb appeal

Enhance Your Home By Adding Extra Curb Appeal

Whether buyers are looking at your home online or in person, the first thing they see is the outside and the surrounding areas. When your home is clean and well-taken care of on the outside, it can entice buyers to take a look inside. Adding things like flowers or a wreath on the door, trimming the shrubs, or edging the sidewalk can all add extra curb appeal to your home.

For the projects that cannot be done on your own, the experts at Bruno Painting Carpentry and Remodeling are here to get the job done for you. Our services range from interior and exterior painting, power washing, gutter cleaning, carpentry, deck additions or updates, and remodeling. 

 

Bruno Painting is here for everything your home needs. When you're ready to prepare your house to sell, our experts can give you advice on what your home needs to get ready to sell quickly. Bruno Painting is a highly trusted name all across Rhode Island. Our trained and certified employees are here to serve Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to find out how we can help you update your home or prep your home to sell.  

Summer is officially here and with it comes late nights and long weekends outside enjoying our incredible Rhode Island weather. Now more than ever our homes have become our central hub for work, play, and entertainment. However you enjoy your outdoor area, a great looking, well-maintained deck is essential for enjoying your view from your back deck.

Over time, decks begin to show signs of natural wear and tear that need to be addressed. Most importantly, taking care of your deck will help keep your home protected from damage. Thankfully, our experts at Bruno Painting have put together a list of signs to look for so you know when your deck needs to be repaired.

 

a deck being repaired by bruno painting in rhode island

Condition of Your Deck

The most common material for decks in Rhode Island is pressure-treated lumber. For many decades, this sturdy material was the default choice for builders on the classic coast. As with any natural building material, repeated exposure to the elements will cause wood to swell, split, crack, cup, and warp in humid, precipitous climates. Exposed screws or nails from splintering wood, fading or discolored boards, or boards that are soft and spongy to the touch are all clear signs that your deck needs to be repaired.

Deck railing and handrails are other common areas of your deck that require regular attention. Loose handrails can pose a serious hazard to you and your guests if left to weather and wear down over time. Railing is a key component to your deck’s aesthetic and to its function, most especially if you have a raised deck and the railing protects against a fall.

If your deck is attached to your home and has wood that is exposed, moisture can seep into joists, ledger boards, and siding of your home that is attached to your deck. This can ultimately expose your foundation to excessive moisture that may lead to larger issues such as mold, mildew, and decay. As long as your deck is cared for properly and regularly maintained over the years, your deck can support your home’s health, instead of causing damage to it.

 

a faded deck is a sign that your deck needs to be repaired

Stain and Finish Peeling

A wooden deck shows obvious signs when it is time for a new coat of paint or stain. Previous coats of sealant will begin to fade and peel revealing exposed wood underneath. This can happen with heavy foot traffic, weather, and everyday life. 

Surfaces needing to be repainted or restained should be completely cleaned and dry before applying a stain. Due to the necessary drying time for stains, the forecast will need to call for clear, sunny days with warm temperatures and low humidity to allow the stain to set properly. Without these conditions, your stain may not bind properly and may need to be reapplied.

 

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Painting versus Staining

There are pros and cons to both painting and staining your deck. Some prefer stain because it allows the natural wood grain of your deck to show through. With stain, an all-in-one protective layer with a wood preservative is already incorporated. On the other hand, paint can provide an added layer of protection, as well as a different look and aesthetic.

Regular cleaning and treatment of your deck is a great way to extend the life of your deck. On average, decks are typically repainted or restained every two to three years. This can vary, though, depending on how much you utilize your deck space.

 

a new deck by bruno painting rhode island contractors

Replace Your Wooden Deck

While pressure-treated wood is one of the more common materials for residential outdoor decking, many homeowners are opting for more durable, upscale alternatives such as exotic woods like ipe and tigerwood. Other homeowners are utilizing composite deck materials (sometimes referred to as ‘plastic wood’) to reduce deck maintenance needs and enjoy a more splinter-free deck experience.

When you see signs that your deck needs to be repaired, our experienced carpenters can remove your old decking and replace it with any of these newer materials. During our consultation with you, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of decking material. This will allow you to choose what fits your design aesthetic and your budget.

 

Bruno Painting has been built on core values like integrity, humility, attitude, discipline, and excellence. These values are why the mission to uphold and care for surfaces and relationships is so important with every project and interaction our company has. We focus on building long-lasting relationships with our team and clients to provide the best service possible. No matter your home project, we desire to bring great service with trust, honesty, and dedication as if we were working on our own homes. Contact us today to set up a free estimate and let us transform your home this summer.

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